The house of wealthy merchant and landlord Thomas Gledstanes showcases high-rise living, 17th-century style, at the beating heart of Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile. In six rooms split across two levels, the authentically restored tenement shows how people from a variety of backgrounds went about their lives at a time when the cramped Lawnmarket was very much a living, breathing, working part of one of the world's fastest-growing and influential cities.

Inside these walls you'll discover the indignities of living in cramped conditions, the embarrassing consequences of sitting too close to the fire and the gruesome punishment for cheating your customers.

The Gledstanes name relates to the gilded bird of prey hanging outside the house. 'Gled' is an old Scottish word for red-tailed kite, which are often found nesting among 'stanes' or stones.

On Saturdays during July and August, from 12.30-5pm, visitors can get a flavour of 17th-century life with the guides in costume in the display rooms. The costume guides really help to bring the house to life and ensure that visitors get the most from their visit.

Holiday at Gladstone's Land

Gladstone's Land is a beautiful property often described as a 'hidden gem'. Lying just a stone's throw from Edinburgh Castle, on the Royal Mile, in the area known …